radioactivity of coals and ash and slag wastes at coal-fired thermal power plants

problems related to the use of coals with an elevated content of natural radionuclides (nrns) and methods of their solution implemented at the urtuyskoe coalfield are dealt with. data on the analysis of transbaikal coals for the nrn content, as well as weighted mean content of uranium and thorium in coals from the siberian region, are given.

in order to reduce irradiation of plant personnel and the population of the areas where coal producers and coal-fired thermal power plants are located, it is necessary to organize very careful control of the nrn content in both coals and products of their combustion that are released into the environment. to solve the problem related to the control of radioactivity, the centralized approach and creation of a proper normative base are needed. experience gained in developing the urtuyskoe coalfield shows that it is possible to create an efficient system of coal quality control with respect to the radiation hygiene factor and provide protection of the environment and health of the population.